Dating can be both exciting and terrifying at the same time. The anticipation, the nerves, the chance that you are about to set off on a journey into a long term relationship.

But before we get ahead of ourselves, love has to start somewhere, a little flirting and some light conversation. So where do you start? How can you get ready for your first date and what can you do to give yourselves the best chance?

Planning

The first thing to do is pick a venue – the classic option is a nice restaurant, and that is just fine; there is no need to be over adventurous, remember that the evening is about the two of you, not the activity at hand.

It is a good idea to pick somewhere you both know of, this will ensure you can both find it and hopefully get there on time – it also lessens the chance that your meal will be bad.

Preparation

If you are going out for a meal make sure you are ready to eat, but not absolutely starving; eating like a maniac won’t be flattering, but equally if you just pick at your food and don’t eat much you will seem really picky.

It goes without saying of course that you will want a shower, some cologne etc, but try not to overdo it either – girls, easy on the make up. It is common for nervous daters to overdo it on these things to cover their nerves. “Just be yourself” is cliché, but it’s true.

Conversation

This is perhaps the part that scares people the most, and certainly a lack of chatter will make things feel awkward. Just remember to ask lots of questions; simple things such as “where did you grow up”, “what are your hobbies”, “what type of music do you like”.

Don’t ask question after question, but have some in mind to keep the conversation going if you feel an awkward silence coming up. Questions start conversations which will hopefully allow you to find common interests.

Flowers

Guys, this one is for you – you kind of have to judge the girl, flowers aren’t essential of course, and being given a big bunch just before sitting for a meal isn’t exactly convenient either, but there are few girls who don’t appreciate a small gesture, perhaps a single rose to break the ice… Don’t overdo it.

About the Guest Poster:
Alex writes for the site FlirtingHub.Com. He loves writing about dating and relationships, and finding ways to assist others in helping love to grow and last.